“Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic development within Indigenous communities aligns with our mission at Mastercard of building an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “We are proud to continue our journey with Pow Wow Pitch by extending our partnership and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.” 

In 2022, Mastercard Canada joined Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting sponsor for the first time, marking a significant milestone in their partnership. The support provided by Mastercard Canada has been instrumental in empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, enabling them to overcome the challenges of starting and scaling their businesses.

As part of this partnership, Mastercard Canada engages with Pow Wow Pitch in various capacities. More than a dozen members of the Mastercard team serve as virtual mentors and judges, offering valuable insights and expertise to Indigenous entrepreneurs. Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard Canada also serves on the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council, further strengthening the collaboration.

“I cannot overstate the significance of our partnership with Mastercard,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “It is more than just a collaboration; it’s an enabler of our mission, a strategic alliance that propels us forward and a support for capacity building within Indigenous communities. Together, we are aligned in our vision, values and commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs. This partnership exemplifies what true leadership looks like: working hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, toward a common goal of fostering economic empowerment and prosperity.”

Mastercard Canada’s commitment to supporting Pow Wow Pitch extends beyond mentorship and financial support. Through initiatives like Mastercard Changeworks™, they provide crucial support for digital adoption, cybersecurity training and technology donations. Additionally, Mastercard supports Pow Wow Pitch’s Alumni network, Alumni Program, Powwowmarket.ca and annually presents two awards at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, further enhancing the ecosystem for Indigenous entrepreneurship.

By supporting Pow Wow Pitch and investing in its long-term success, Mastercard Canada is contributing to the creation of a more equitable and prosperous future for Indigenous communities. This partnership serves as a model for how corporate entities can support Indigenous entrepreneurship and work toward economic reconciliation in Canada.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is an entrepreneurship program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth for current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Helena Wade, Manager, Communications
Mastercard 
helena.wade@mastercard.com

The post Mastercard Expands Partnership with Pow Wow Pitch to Reinforce Commitment to Empowering Indigenous Entrepreneurs appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

The awards continue their mission to celebrate excellence and remarkable achievements in Indigenous entrepreneurship, recognizing outstanding Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada.

Presented in collaboration with esteemed partners RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada, and with the valued support of the Export Development Canada, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Sklar Wilton & Associates, and Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, these awards stand as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs with a minimum of three years of business operation in Canada. Applications and nominations will remain open until June 5, 2024, culminating in the announcement and celebration of winners during a digitally broadcast awards presentation on November 13, 2024.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed, “The Awards are a beacon of recognition for the entrepreneurial spirit and success within Indigenous communities. They provide a vital platform for celebrating resilience and reconciliation through the lens of entrepreneurship.”

Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC reiterated the importance of the Awards, stating, “The contribution of Indigenous entrepreneurs to our economy is immeasurable – their leadership inspires innovation, collaboration and plays a critical role in fostering stronger, more inclusive communities. Through our support for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we are proud to continue our efforts in recognizing the potential and talent of Indigenous innovators and celebrating their inspirational stories of entrepreneurship.”

Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program Manager at Shopify, emphasized the significance of celebrating Indigenous ingenuity and excellence, saying, “Through our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch and support of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Shopify proudly amplifies the exceptional contributions of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Their innovation and dedication exemplify the strength of ancestral wisdom and pave the way for sustainable prosperity.”

Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada, reinforced the importance of recognizing the successes of Indigenous entrepreneurs, saying, “by championing Indigenous entrepreneurs, we ensure their voices are heard and seen. Together, with Pow Wow Pitch, we are building a future where everyone can reach their full potential, contributing to a more prosperous and inclusive society.”

Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at Export Development Canada, highlights that celebrating Indigenous people through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards is a testament to “honoring the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Together, we pave the path towards a future where Indigenous entrepreneurship not only thrives but leads.”

Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), expresses being honoured to support Pow Wow Pitch in uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs through the Awards, stating, “our shared commitment to amplifying Indigenous Peoples and businesses making strides in the tourism industry fosters economic opportunities, while also preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.  Moreover, ITAC’s vision is to help make Canada the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030. The importance of Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs are essential in helping meet this goal, as they contribute to growth in Indigenous-owned and operated tourism businesses, job growth and contributions to Canada’s GDP.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton & Associates, shares the importance of highlighting the achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “the positive impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island shines bright and enriches our economy. Sklar Wilton & Associates is so proud to show our support in this year’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards by highlighting exceptional community leaders, paving the way for future generations.”

Althea Wishloff, General Partner of Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, reinforces the importance of recognizing Indigenous achievements within entrepreneurship, emphasizing, “The impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs resonates deeply within our communities, igniting economic resurgence and cultural vitality. Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, rooted in our commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic sustainability, proudly champions Indigenous excellence. We are dedicated to showcasing exemplary leaders who embody our values of credibility, accountability, and transparency, thereby inspiring future generations to thrive.” 

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards stand as a testament to the vitality of Indigenous entrepreneurship, serving to empower entrepreneurs and bolster the growth and prosperity of Indigenous businesses. To apply or nominate, please visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Keely Thompson-Cook at keely@powwowpitch.org.

The post Celebrate Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Applications Now Open for 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Indigenous vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs from both Canada and the United States are encouraged to pitch their businesses and ideas, virtually or in-person at various powwows and Indigenous festivals, for an opportunity to join the Pow Wow Pitch training and mentorship program, and to vie for cash prizes.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, remarked, “Pow Wow Pitch serves as a vital platform for Indigenous entrepreneurs to support one another and showcase their innovative ideas that contribute to building capacity with their communities.”

Here’s how it works:

Virtual Pitch: Entrepreneurs can submit a one-minute video pitch virtually between April 3rd and June 5th at powwowpitch.org/pitch. Pow Wow Pitch will select the top 100 Indigenous entrepreneurs as semi-finalists, providing them with mentorship and pitch training. Semi-finalists will compete in virtual semi-finals for a chance to win cash prizes and advance to the finals.

In-Person: Pow Wow Pitch will also host live pitch events at Manito Ahbee on May 18, 2024, in Winnipeg, Manitoba; Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival on June 22, 2024, in Ottawa, Ontario; Kamloopa Powwow on June 28 and 29, 2024 in Kamloops, British Columbia; and Tobique Powwow on July 27, 2024 in Tobique, New Brunswick. Entrepreneurs can pitch their business or idea live for a chance to win cash prizes and receive a golden ticket to the finals.

The Finals: On October 23rd, top entrepreneurs from both virtual and live semi-finals will pitch to a panel of judges at the Grand Finale for a chance to win top prizes: an Alumni Prize of $5,000, 3rd Prize of $5,000, 2nd Prize of $10,000, and 1st Prize of $25,000.

All participating entrepreneurs will join a thriving community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, get a free pass to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Bootcamp, gain access to free training and support, receive a free .CA domain from CIRA, and a 60-day free Shopify trial to establish their online presence.

Last year’s winner, Ashley Michel, Founder of 4 Generation Creations, shared her experience: “Pow Wow Pitch has provided so many growth opportunities, such as expanding my network and gaining clientele across Canada. The funding support has allowed us to move into my first retail shop and, most importantly, has allowed us to expand our team.”

Pow Wow Pitch extends gratitude to its partners for their steadfast support. RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada are co-presenting sponsors, providing significant multi-year support to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.

Tracy Antoine, Senior Director, Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC reaffirmed RBC’s commitment: “There are countless Indigenous entrepreneurs who are driving impactful change in communities and transforming industries with their leadership and innovation. We are excited to partner with Pow Wow Pitch to uncover these remarkable stories and support this year’s cohort of entrepreneurs in pursuing their dreams.”

Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program Manager at Shopify, echoed the sentiment: “Shopify is incredibly proud to continue our continued support for Pow Wow Pitch, building a thriving ecosystem where Indigenous entrepreneurs can flourish and make a lasting impact on the global market.”

Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada, added, “We are extremely proud to continue to partner with Pow Wow Pitch to amplify the voices of Indigenous small business owners, helping them share their stories and raise awareness of the actions needed to ensure they can grow and thrive. Together, with partners like Pow Wow Pitch, we’re aiming to build a future where everyone can reach their full potential, leading to a more prosperous and inclusive Canada.”

Pow Wow Pitch is also supported by Silver Sponsors  Export Development Canada, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, NACCA, Canada Post, Sklar Wilton and Associates, Jelly Academy, Futurpreneur, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, Aritzia and Seed Sponsors,  CIRA, Invest Ottawa, Best Buy Canada, MINI TIPI, the Joint Economic Development Initiative, CFDC of CIFN, ANTCO, IndigPro.

Indigenous entrepreneurs are encouraged to pitch their businesses or ideas and join the Pow Wow Pitch community. To learn more about the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch competition, visit powwowpitch.org/pitch.

–

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, providing a supportive environment that addresses the challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurship. Pow Wow Pitch enhances growth through mentorship, programs and resources, promoting community leadership through volunteerism. For more information, visit www.powwowpitch.org.

About RBC Indigenous Financial Services Group

For more than 100 years, RBC has been building relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Canada. We are committed to serving Indigenous governments, communities, organizations, businesses and individuals by creating opportunities for sustainable economic development through access to banking, capital and wealth management solutions. In addition to recruitment, training and procurement opportunities, RBC also provides donations and grants that support Indigenous interests. For more insight and market information from “A Chosen Journey” publication, visit rbcroyalbank.com/indigenous

About Shopify

Shopify powers millions of businesses worldwide, the all-in-one commerce platform to start, run, and grow a business. Shopify’s Indigenous Entrepreneurship initiative, Build Native, supports Indigenous brands in establishing and growing their businesses. Shopify powers millions of businesses in more than 175 countries and is trusted by brands such as Cheekbone Beauty, SECTION35, Staples, Converse, and many more. For more information, visit www.shopify.com or www.buildnative.shop.

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all. For more information, visit www.mastercard.com 

The post Calling All Indigenous Entrepreneurs: Pow Wow Pitch Announces $100,000 Cash Prize Competition appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Last year Mastercard partnered with Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting sponsor for the first time, and the impact of their support was significant. 

More than a dozen members of the Mastercard team served as virtual mentors and judges, offering valuable insights to Indigenous entrepreneurs. Jennifer Sloan, Vice President of Policy at Mastercard, and Mansur Mirani, Vice President of the Mastercard Vancouver Tech Hub, also joined the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council and offered their expertise as judges. 

Mastercard’s support for Pow Wow Pitch went beyond mentorship and sponsorship. Via Mastercard Changeworks™  they provided crucial support for digital adoption through CanadaHelps and cybersecurity training as part of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Bootcamp. Additionally, Mastercard doubled the size of the Alumni Fund and presented two awards for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards. These actions were instrumental in helping Indigenous entrepreneurs overcome the challenges of starting and scaling a business.

“At Mastercard, we are proud to invest in establishing and growing Pow Wow Pitch as a sustainable and scalable solution to foster Indigenous entrepreneurship and empowerment,” said Sasha Krstic, president of Mastercard in Canada. “Seeing the impact Pow Wow Pitch has had on Indigenous entrepreneurs is truly inspiring. We are excited to extend our partnership and continue the important work of empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

Through its investment in Pow Wow Pitch, Mastercard is helping to build the infrastructure and capacity necessary to support Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to continue our partnership with Mastercard! The company has been an incredible asset to Pow Wow Pitch and our Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “This support has enabled us to expand our impact and help even more Indigenous entrepreneurs realize their dreams of owning and operating successful businesses. We’re over the moon about the work we’ve accomplished together and can’t wait to see what’s in store for the future. Here’s to continuing this epic journey with Mastercard by our side!”

By supporting Pow Wow Pitch and investing in its long-term success, Mastercard is contributing to the creation of a more equitable and prosperous future for Indigenous communities. This partnership serves as a model for how corporate entities can support Indigenous entrepreneurship and work towards economic reconciliation in Canada. 

About Pow Wow Pitch 

Pow Wow Pitch is an entrepreneurship program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth for current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch. For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

Emilija Businskas, Vice President, Communications

Mastercard

emilija.businskas@mastercard.com

437-244-6282

The post Mastercard doubles down on support for Indigenous entrepreneurs with Pow Wow Pitch partnership extension! appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Today, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced a two-year partnership with Mastercard that will provide Indigenous-owned businesses the additional support needed to help them grow. 

As part of its mission of fostering an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere, the Mastercard partnership includes a $500,000 investment and significant employee volunteerism to help grow the Pow Wow Pitch Program’s reach and impact in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. Mastercard will also be a Co-Presenting Partner for its 2022 and 2023 Programming.

In addition to its support of Pow Wow Pitch Programming, Mastercard has also invested an additional $25,000 in the Pow Wow Pitch Alumni network to support Alumni to foster entrepreneurship in their communities across Canada. 

“We are thrilled and honoured to welcome Mastercard into the Pow Wow Pitch family,” said Sunshine Tenasco, the Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Mastercard shares our vision for Indigenous empowerment through entrepreneurship and their willingness to jump in to support us to grow our impact for Indigenous people in Canada and globally gives us great hope and the momentum we need to scale our impact.”

Set to support more than 2,500 Indigenous entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding, training, marketing and a safe and trusted community of support, this partnership supports Pow Wow Pitch’s impact on the ground in communities across Canada and its global expansion activities in the United States and New Zealand.

“Small businesses serve as the foundation of our economy and the pillars of our communities across Canada. As Indigenous entrepreneurs look to build and grow their businesses, Mastercard’s commitment to empowering this community for long-term growth is stronger than ever,” said Sasha Krstic, president of Mastercard in Canada. “Together with our partners, like Pow Wow Pitch, with tools and resources, data, and mentorship, we hope to make a positive impact on individuals, their businesses and their future success.” 

Through its contribution to Pow Wow Pitch, Mastercard is building on its commitment to understanding the ongoing needs and challenges individuals face and taking steps towards advancing equal opportunities for all.

To learn more about the partnership between Pow Wow Pitch and Mastercard, visit www.powwowpitch.org/mastercard. 

About Pow Wow Pitch 

Pow Wow Pitch is an entrepreneurship program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth for current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch. For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

Emilija Businskas, Vice President, Communications
Mastercard
emilija.businskas@mastercard.com
437-244-6282

The post Mastercard Embarks on 2-Year Partnership with Pow Wow Pitch appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.